Rev. Petras Azubalis Scholarship Fund
Rev. Petras Azubalis Scholarship fund is annual scholarship awarded to one or more students of Lithuanian descent who is studying at a Canadian institution of higher learning in the academic field of humanities. Applicants complete the Lithuanian Canadian Fund scholarship application in its
entirety, following the guidelines provided with the application.
2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Rusne Mikelionyte
Why did you choose your field of study and what goals do you aim to achieve?
My family moved from Lithuania to Canada when I was five years old. Growing up as a Lithuanian in Canada, I have been exposed to the transformative powers of globalization, which have influenced my understanding of values and cultures.
Moving at a young age to a different continent exposed me to diverse cultures and worldviews. The ability to understand different cultural nuances motivated me to participate in Model United Nations at the University of Alberta, which encouraged debate among students in passing resolutions for pressing global issues and honed my communication and leadership skills.
Active participation in the activities of the Canadian Lithuanian Society of Edmonton has taught me the value of civic engagement and community responsibility and deepened my connection to my heritage.
I am particularly interested in why and how globalization, something I view as a positive force for change, is currently being questioned due to the resurgence of nationalism. Analyzing these tensions was a core motivation for my application for the Bachelor’s Philosophy, Politics and Society program at Radboud University in the Netherlands. I believe that studies in my chosen program will enable me to become a better advocate for globalism, democracy and its benefits.
Aida Wilkialis
Why did you choose your field of study and what goals do you aim to achieve?
Please write your essay response of up to 200 words in the space provided below:
My love for law began with high school electives, but it was during a visit to the Toronto courthouse that my path solidified. Sitting in on a homicide trial, I was captivated by the courtroom dynamics—the legal arguments, the presentation of evidence, and the judge’s deliberations. In that moment, I knew I wanted to pursue legal education.
The Honours Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Public Policy program was a natural fit with my interest in law and governance. It provided comprehensive knowledge of the Canadian judicial system while sharpening my research skills and deepening my understanding of the evolving relationship between law and society.
I then entered the legal workforce as an assistant, where I applied my skills and experience to help lawyers achieve successful outcomes. This invaluable foundation also enabled me to assist the Lithuanian Community Centre “Anapilis” when it faced legal challenges with the City of Toronto. I connected the organization’s President with a senior lawyer and, despite limited exposure to corporate law, quickly learned the fundamentals to support the case. This experience reinforced my determination to earn a Juris Doctor and become a licensed lawyer, making meaningful contributions to both Lithuanian and Canadian communities.